Football
ESPN staff 10y

Van Gaal backed to succeed at United

Louis van Gaal would be a "huge success" at Manchester United, former Netherlands international Bryan Roy has told Mirror Sport.

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Old Trafford sources have told ESPN FC that the club are in the process of making contact with Van Gaal following David Moyes' departure on Tuesday.

Roy, who played under Van Gaal at Ajax, believes his compatriot would be keen on taking over at the Premier League side.

The Dutchman said: “He has definitely still got the hunger. I think he will die on the pitch, because he will never retire. He loves the job too much.

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“He will never turn down Manchester United, believe me. I think it’s the job he really wants. And he will be a revelation at Manchester United.

“He is, without question, the best manager I have ever played for. For me, he has proved himself to be one of the best managers and coaches in the world.

“He is very disciplined, very strict and is very attacking in his philosophy. I know English football well, and his style is suited to that.

“He believes in wingers, he is very strong and very tactical. The best word I can think of is demanding.

“On the pitch, every player will be told their job, they will know exactly what is expected of them, their position and role in the team.

“The way he prepares his teams is outstanding. In terms of organisation and tactics -- the way he sets teams up will suit English football -- is superb."

Roy is sure that Van Gaal would get the best out of the current United squad, in particular Netherlands striker Robin van Persie.

He added: “I look at Manchester United and they have a lot of young players. They will respond to him as well as the older ones who will have respect for him.

“I know Robin van Persie will work well with him. He can handle the big clubs because of where he’s been before and the big players.

“He can be difficult and he is strong and strict. I can’t deny that I had some problems with him but I was a young player and you learn. We go back to the word demanding and he always demands his players to know their job, to work hard and do their best."

Meanwhile, The Sun claims Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti could be targeted by United as they look to get back on track for the 2014-15 season.

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